Abandoned Railroad Bed Bike Trail

An abandoned railroad bed located near the north entrance of Yellowstone makes a beautiful bike trail.This mostly level dirt trail [8 mi (13 km)] round trip) starts northwest of the Heritage and Research Center in Gardiner, Montana. It follows the abandoned railway bed north paralleling the Yellowstone River between Gardiner and the park’s northern boundary at Reese Creek. Electric Peak will dominate the view to your northwest. Turn around and head back the same way. Keep your eyes open for pronghorn, elk, and bison. Mountain bikes are best for this trail. The area is a high desert and can be hot so make sure to bring along water. Park at the pullout on the old Yellowstone Road near the Heritage and Research Center. Parking is limited. The trail down to the abandoned railroad bed is not well-marked and you will need to walk your bike until you reach the old railroad bed. Alerts: Be alert for bears: both black and grizzly bears forage in this area depending on the time of year. Ride with bear spray, have it accessible, and know how to use it. Bison, elk, and pronghorn frequent this trail. Federal regulations require you to stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from bison and all other wild animals. In addition, keep eyes open for cactus situated in and next to the roadbed. We recommend bringing tire sealant.